Overdam Feather Reed Grass

Overdam feather reed grass is a compact ornamental grass with narrow green leaves striped in yellow and cream. Its variegated foliage forms a neat upright clump, followed by airy purplish flower sprays that fade to brown, giving this selection color and structure across several seasons. ## Cultivar and size The [Royal Horticultural Society profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/93664/calamagrostis-%C3%97-acutiflora-overdam-v/details) identifies ‘Overdam’ and describes its compact, tufted habit, cream-striped leaves and summer plumes. The [City of Fort Collins plant list](https://apps.fcgov.com/plant-list/?view=224-overdam-feather-reed-grass) gives a 1–3 foot height range and lists pink and yellow flower shades, green and white variegated leaves, and fall and winter interest. The [Morton Arboretum](https://mortonarb.org/plant-and-protect/trees-and-plants/feather-reed-grass/) describes its green-and-creamy-white leaf stripes and compact size when in flower. A four-year [Chicago Botanic Garden trial](https://www.chicagobotanic.org/sites/default/files/2023-12/FG213_High-ranking%20Reed%20Grasses.pdf) measured ‘Overdam’ at 52 inches tall by 32 inches wide. ## Siting Grow in full sun or partial shade in moist, well-drained soil. The RHS lists clay, loam, sand and chalk among suitable soil types. Use it in a border, an architectural planting or a container where the striped foliage can be seen. ## Maintenance Leave the dry flower stems in place for winter interest, then cut old stems to the ground in early spring before new growth resumes. Divide clumps in mid-spring if they become crowded. The RHS notes that the grass is generally pest-free, though rust can occur.